What does norepinephrine do?

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Norepinephrine is a chemical similar to adrenaline that is administered to patients to narrow the blood vessels and increase blood pressure and blood sugar levels, according to Drugs.com. Health care providers use it during CPR or in cases of life-threatening low blood pressure caused by surgery and certain health conditions.

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Norepinephrine is administered intravenously in hospitals and in an emergency scenario for as long as needed, notes Drugs.com. Possible side effects include allergic reactions; skin changes surrounding the injection spot; sudden feelings of numbness, cold or weakness in the body; slow or arrhythmic heart rate; blue lips or fingernails; urinary retention; difficulty in breathing, speech, vision or balance; and signs of dangerously high blood pressure.